2010 ford focus key position

[klbertin]

Hello all, I have a 2010 Ford Focus set up with a Blue ox base plate. My question is this, the owners manual states to put the key in the off position when flat towing, but this puts the wheel in the locked position, every one I asked as told me this is wrong, do to the fact that this will drag my front tires around the corners, I agree, but the manual is very striat forward and clear on the wheel lock being set in this position.
Please Help
thanks Kevin

[klbertin]

Thanks for that tid-bit kyhawk,I will check into that with my local dealership, that is a great way to do it, and inexpensive.

[kyhawk]

Our Escape works the same way. Also, the Ford dealer made me a dummy key for about $5. It does everything except start the car, and I can keep the real key and fob in my pocket when driving the MH.

[klbertin]

After much frustration trying to find the right answer with this problem, I found out myself that the key in the off/locked position is correct, as long as You do not remove the key from the ignition, the wheel does not lock, thus you do not need to turn anything off, you just need to have a spare key or separate the electronic door fob from the keys, in case you accidently lock the doors.

[RognBon]

I don't know what the difference is between the Focus and the Edge, but the manual for my Edge says to turn the key all the way back toward off. When the transmission is in the neutral position (for an automatic transmission) the key does not go all the way to lock, so the steering wheel stays unlocked and the wheels track freely to the right and left. You just have to make sure all electronics (stereo, auto light switch, air conditioner fan, etc) are off to prevent battery drain. I have been towing our Edge for over five years and have never had an issue. If you have a manual transmission, the procedure may be different.

[klbertin]

Thanks for the reply old-biscuit, although I was hoping for a bit more information about this topic, due to the fact that I've been told if I tow with the wheels locked I'm asking for trouble, in the macanics of the car as well as the wear of the tires, is there any one that can help make sense of all this in a more definitive way.

[Old-Biscuit]

According to REMCO


Notes

Towable as is without speed or distance restrictions. See Owner's Manual for confirmation and procedures.
Please check your Owner's Manual for confirmation. Follow procedures within Owner's Manual for guidance when towing this vehicle.


I would follow 'Owner Manual'